Reptile · Boa
Arabian sand boa care guide
Eryx jayakari
The arabian sand boa is a intermediate-level boa from Arabian Peninsula, S Iran. Adults reach 30–45 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. Buries in deep, fine sand. Solitary.
- Enclosure 60 × 45 × 30 cm
- Temp Warm 30–33°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 10–30%
How much does a arabian sand boa cost in Canada?
Arabian sand boa quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 30–45 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Arabian Peninsula, S Iran
- Minimum enclosure
- 60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 in, ≈ 21 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 30–33°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 10–30%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice
- Bioactive style
- Arid desert
Arabian sand boa enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a arid desert bioactive build.
- Soil and sand mix15 cm
A deep, sandy mix packed firmly lets burrows hold their shape; keep only the deepest layer faintly moist.
Temperature: Warm 30–33°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 10–30%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a arabian sand boa eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice. Feed one small thawed mouse every 10–14 days; some need lizard scent to start.
Handling, temperament & health
Small and calm but rarely seen above the sand.
Health watch: Watch for respiratory infections from damp sand and feeding refusal.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check basking temperatures; refresh water (or mist lightly for species that drink droplets).
Weekly
- Spot-clean waste.
Monthly
- Lightly moisten one deep corner so burrows hold and isopods survive.
- Check rock stacks are stable.
Yearly
- Refresh the top layer; replace UVB bulbs on schedule.
Recommended for a arabian sand boa bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (60 × 45 × 30 cm).
Arabian sand boa FAQ
Is the arabian sand boa good for beginners?
The arabian sand boa is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Small and calm but rarely seen above the sand.
What size enclosure does a arabian sand boa need?
At least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (about 24 × 18 × 12 inches, roughly 21 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a arabian sand boa cost in Canada?
Typically $300–700 CAD to buy, about $410–750 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $120–250 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a arabian sand boa need?
Temperature: Warm 30–33°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 10–30%.
What does a arabian sand boa eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice. Feed one small thawed mouse every 10–14 days; some need lizard scent to start.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.